Library of Congress subject headings - an introduction

Abstract

This guide provides a concise and practical overview of the Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH), a critical tool for organizing and accessing information in libraries. Designed for librarians and staff new to subject headings, it introduces the structure, purpose, and application of LCSH in cataloging and information retrieval. Readers will learn how subject headings are constructed, how to navigate the system, and how to apply them effectively in various library contexts. By understanding LCSH, users can enhance the discoverability of materials and improve the accuracy of subject-based searching in library catalogs and databases.